Gazzam is identified in the Bible as one of the Nethinim, a group of temple servants in ancient Israel. The Nethinim were assigned to assist the Levites in the service of the temple, performing various duties to support the worship and rituals conducted there. The term "Nethinim" itself means "given ones," indicating their dedicated role in the service of God’s sanctuary.

Biblical References:

Gazzam is mentioned specifically in the post-exilic period, during the time when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. The name appears in the lists of those who returned with Zerubbabel, as recorded in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah.

1. Ezra 2:48 : "the descendants of Lebanah, the descendants of Hagabah, the descendants of Akkub, the descendants of Hagab, the descendants of Shalmai, the descendants of Hanan, the descendants of Giddel, the descendants of Gahar, the descendants of Reaiah, the descendants of Rezin, the descendants of Nekoda, the descendants of Gazzam,"

2. Nehemiah 7:51 : "the descendants of Gazzam, the descendants of Uzza, the descendants of Paseah, the descendants of Besai, the descendants of Meunim, the descendants of Nephusim,"

These passages list Gazzam among the Nethinim who returned to Jerusalem, highlighting the continuity of temple service and the restoration of religious practices after the exile.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Nethinim, including Gazzam, played a crucial role in the functioning of the Second Temple. Their duties likely included tasks such as maintaining the temple grounds, preparing offerings, and assisting the Levites in various ceremonial functions. The return of the Nethinim was essential for re-establishing the full range of temple services, which were central to the religious life of the Jewish community.

The inclusion of Gazzam in these lists underscores the importance of every group and individual in the collective effort to restore the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem. It also reflects the meticulous record-keeping and genealogical awareness of the post-exilic community, which sought to preserve the purity and order of temple service as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Gazzam and the Nethinim in the biblical narrative highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His people and their religious institutions. Despite the challenges of exile and the daunting task of rebuilding, the returnees, including the Nethinim, were instrumental in re-establishing the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Their service exemplifies dedication and obedience to God's commands, serving as a model for faithfulness and commitment to divine worship.

The role of the Nethinim, including Gazzam, also points to the broader theme of servanthood in the Bible. Their humble service in the temple reflects the biblical ideal of serving God and others, a principle that resonates throughout both the Old and New Testaments.Ezra 2:48
The children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam,
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 7:51
The children of Gazzam, the children of Uzza, the children of Phaseah,
Nave's Topical Index

1502. Gazzam -- "devourer," an Israelite
... NASB Word Usage Gazzam (2). Gazzam. From the same as gazam; devourer -- Gazzam,
one of the Nethinim -- Gazzam. see HEBREW gazam. 1501, 1502. Gazzam. 1503 . ...
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